Image of career: Financial Analyst

Financial Analyst

Overview

Financial analysts are financial data detectives who study company performance, spot unusual patterns, and help businesses make smart financial decisions.

Description

  • Monitor investments by analysing information from various sources.
  • Make forecasts and recommendations to management teams, clients, and other key stakeholders.
  • Prepare detailed market research reports.
  • Create weekly and monthly management reports.
  • Work with different parties like banks and investors on investment-related activities.

Entry requirements

  • You at least need a Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or Statistics.
  • Gain experience through internships in business finance, focusing on statistical or numerical analysis work.

Salary

$3,500 – 5,000

/mo

Salary ranges are estimated based on public information found on Singaporean job portals, including MyCareersFuture, MySkillsFuture. Updated as of 2026.

Trivia

Financial analyst is actually an umbrella term covering many different specialties. These professionals work on things such as budgeting and forecasting, company valuations and merger deals and more - there's huge variety in this field.

What to expect

Master financial terminology and accounting language early - clear communication with clients and colleagues is essential for success in this field.

Soft
skills

Innovative Problem-Solving

Skilled in innovative thinking and strategy to solve financial challenges and optimise growth and stability.

Adaptability

Ability to adjust to changing financial market situations and changing strategies when needed.

Analytical Skills

Proficiency in analysing financial data and drawing logical conclusions to inform sound business recommendations.

Understanding of Quantitative Finance and Accounting

Understanding and application of mathematics and statistics to finance and risk management issues.

Knowledge of Global and Local Market Trends

Knowledge of global economics and local markets affecting financial choices.

Data Analytics software

Expertise in Excel, SQL, and Python, financial data analysis, and visual representations of trends in large datasets.

Hard
skills

Frequently asked questions

Both analyse data, but financial analysts typically work for one company doing market research and financial analysis. Investment bankers work for financial firms and specialise in helping other companies raise money.

There are many specialisations across both private and public sectors. Changing mid-career may be challenging, but your core knowledge and skills will transfer well to any specialisation.

Although a CFA certification requires a lot of commitment and study time, it's beneficial for financial analysts in the long run.

They often collaborate closely with other analysts, departments, and stakeholder. It does depend on the organisation, some may require you to work more independently.

The biggest challenge is continuous learning. Financial markets and regulations constantly evolve, so analysts must stay updated through ongoing professional development and education.